Business, general

Easy writer

Article Abstract:

Software firms initiate a movement designed to make programming easier for computer users, without extended training. The majority of users depend on shrink-wrapped software that enables them to perform a finite number of tasks such as run a spreadsheet or print a document. Some computer users create macros or batch files to execute a whole chain of events via one command. Macros are little computer programs or customized sequences of actions, but they are best suited for automating tasks and cannot help people unaccustomed to programming. Apple's Hypercard is a program, introduced in 1987, that has revolutionized programming. The highly visual program allows users to create their own programs without extensive training and is a standard feature on many Apple Macintoshes. NeXt introduced its NeXTStep software system in 1988 that further simplified programming, and Borland International Inc has developed a program called ObjectVision.

Olivetti is open to broad partnership with larger concern, possibly Digital

Article Abstract:

Ing C. Olivetti & Co is interested in forging new cooperative agreements with computer companies and would particularly like to broaden its relationship with DEC. The two companies currently share some technology and work together in research and development. Representatives from Olivetti revealed that the company hopes to use DEC's Alpha technology in future microcomputers. Olivetti has also endorsed MIPS Computer Systems Inc's chip, which was officially supported by the Advanced Computing Environment (ACE) consortium. DEC's Alpha microprocessor relies on reduced-instruction-set-computing (RISC) technology and is relatively expensive. Olivetti emphasized that any relationship with DEC or other companies would not necessarily involve an equity stake or financial investment.

Putting idle computers to work on projects

Article Abstract:

A new technology that allows one computer to tap the computing power of another unused computer on a network is being developed by various companies. For example, NeXT Inc, The maker of workstations, is using its experimental Zilla computer program to allow networked computers to cooperate on tasks that require the help of other computers. Zilla queries computers on a network, asking if they are free to cooperate on computational tasks. A computer that is not being used receives work to do while it is not being used in other tasks. The process, which takes place during lunch hours and during the night when a computer is not normally being used, is designed to get the most out of computers that normally work during only part of a day.